Loading icon
Health Information Center

Volvulus-Child

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition

Volvulus-Child

Definition

A volvulus is when a loop of intestine twists around itself and the tissue that supports and connects it to the back wall of the abdomen. This cuts off blood supply and blocks the intestine. It must be treated right away.

Causes

The cause of volvulus is not known.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of a volvulus are:

  • Problems found at birth, such as:
    • Intestinal malrotation
    • A colon that is longer or larger than normal
    • A colon that is not attached to the abdominal wall properly
  • Irregular bowel habits
  • Chronic constipation
  • A high fiber diet
  • Hirschsprung disease
  • Prior volvulus

Symptoms

Some children do not have symptoms. Those who do may have:

  • Belly pain and swelling
  • Bloody stools
  • Green or yellow vomit
  • Fast breathing
  • Rapid heart rate

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about the child's symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. This may be enough to make the diagnosis.

Pictures of the abdomen may be taken to confirm the diagnosis. This can be done with:

An endoscopy may be done. It uses a tube with a camera to view inside the intestine.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to unblock the intestine so the bowel will work as it should. Treatment may be:

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent a volvulus.

Non Surgical Treatment

A tube may be passed into the rectum to untwist the intestine.

Surgery

Surgery may be done to untwist the intestine. Any damaged parts of intestine will be taken out. The ends of healthy intestine will be sewn together.

RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Intestinal malrotation and volvulus. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital website. Available at: http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/i/intestinal-malrotation.
  • Sigmoid volvulus. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/sigmoid-volvulus.

Contributors

  • Nicole S. Meregian, PA
Last Updated:
2023-07-10

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.